When a tree falls within city limits, it not only makes a sound--it asks a question. What will become of it? King County forbids disposal of trees in landfills, where they can take 100 years to decompose.
But improper dumpingof trees along greenbelts or ravines can destabilize hillsides. So what do you do when a tree on your property is ready for greener pastures?

SoDo-based furniture maker Urban Hardwoods has an answer. They haul suitable trunks off homeowners' property to create lumber and custom furniture featuring natural live edges. According to owner Jim Newsom, urban trees are so well tended that their trunks often yield larger surfaces than tree-farmed lumber.

The trees are milled, air- and kiln-dried right here in Seattle. Each slab of madrona, walnut and red elm is then transformed into functional works of art, like the pieces on display at Urban Hardwoods' 12,000-square-foot warehouse and showroom.

Using urban trees avoids harmful clear-cutting and monoculture tree farming, both practices that can contribute to erosion, polluted runoff and weakened forests. Sourcing materials locally also cuts down on transportation fuels. And the durable, one-of-a-kind pieces will last for years.

Read more about Urban Hardwoods on their website. If you need to remove a tree from your yard, an ISA-certified arborist can determine if the trunk is suitable for Urban Hardwoods or other salvage options, and can turn smaller parts into mulch. The Natural Lawn and Garden Hotline can help answer questions for free. Learn more about sustainably harvested wood from the Forest Stewardship Council.